Maharashtra Braces for Cyclone 'Shakhti' Impact: IMD Issues High Alert for Coastal and Inland Districts

The state of Maharashtra is on high alert as Cyclone 'Shakhti', the first post-monsoon cyclonic storm over the Arabian Sea, intensifies. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning forecasting heavy rainfall, strong winds, and extremely rough sea conditions for several districts over the coming days.

The cyclone, named 'Shakhti' as per the regional naming convention, has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. While its path is primarily directed away from a direct Indian landfall, its peripheral effects are expected to severely impact the weather along India's western coast, particularly in Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Alert for Coastal and Interior Regions

The IMD has issued a high to moderate cyclone warning for several districts, with the alert period stretching from October 3 to October 7, 2025.

Coastal Districts on High Alert: The warning covers major coastal regions, including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg.

Wind and Sea Conditions: Along the north Maharashtra coast, wind speeds are expected to reach 45-55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, especially between October 3 and 5. Sea conditions are already reported to be very rough and are expected to remain hazardous, prompting strong warnings against all marine activity.

Rainfall Forecast: The weather department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall not only along the coast but also across interior Maharashtra. East Vidarbha and parts of Marathwada are likely to experience intense downpours. Low-lying areas in North Konkan face a potential risk of flooding due to moisture infiltration and heavy cloud formation.

Government and Public Advisories

In response to the severe weather forecast, the Maharashtra government has mobilised its disaster management systems.

Disaster Preparedness: District administrations have been instructed to activate emergency protocols, prepare evacuation plans for residents in coastal and flood-prone areas, and ensure shelters are ready.

Fishermen Warning: A critical advisory has been issued to fishermen, strongly urging them not to venture into the Arabian Sea until at least October 7 due to the extremely rough sea conditions. Boats currently at sea have been advised to return to shore immediately.

Public Safety: Residents, especially in major urban centres like Mumbai, have been urged to stay indoors during heavy rainfall, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain vigilant for municipal warnings regarding waterlogging and road closures.

While the cyclone is currently tracking west-southwestwards into the central Arabian Sea, forecasters caution that the strong winds and torrential rain associated with its outer bands pose a serious threat of disruption to daily life and coastal activities across Maharashtra. Authorities are continuously monitoring the storm's trajectory and strength, urging the public to follow all official safety instructions.